A leaky faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but a single dripping faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year — costing you real money on your water bill. The good news? Many faucet leaks can be fixed without calling a plumber if you're comfortable with basic DIY. In this guide, our licensed Miami plumbers walk you through exactly what to do.
Step 1: Identify the Type of Faucet
Before you pick up a wrench, you need to know what type of faucet you have. The repair method differs based on the faucet type:
- Ball faucets — Have a single handle that rotates over a rounded ball-shaped cap. Common in kitchens.
- Cartridge faucets — Single or double handle, with a cartridge inside. Very common in bathrooms.
- Compression faucets — Older style with two separate handles. Usually found in older Miami homes.
- Ceramic disc faucets — Modern, durable, with a wide cylindrical body.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
This is the most important step. Look under the sink for the shutoff valves — turn them clockwise until they stop. Then turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and water in the line. Place a towel under the sink to catch any drips.
Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet Handle
Most faucet handles are held in place by a screw hidden under a decorative cap. Pop off the cap with a flathead screwdriver, unscrew the handle screw, and gently wiggle the handle off. Set all parts aside in order so you can reassemble them correctly.
Step 4: Replace the Worn Part
The most common culprit for faucet leaks is a worn washer, O-ring, or cartridge. Take the old part to your local hardware store to find an exact match. In Miami, Home Depot locations are widely available. Install the new part, making sure it seats correctly.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order. Turn the water supply back on slowly and test for leaks. Run the faucet for 30 seconds and check all connection points. If it's still dripping, the internal valve seat may be damaged — a job for a licensed plumber.
Still Leaking? We'll Fix It Fast.
Our licensed plumbers serve all of Miami-Dade and Broward County with same-day service.
Call (305) 677-8961When to Call a Professional Plumber
Not every leaky faucet is a simple DIY fix. Call The Plumbers of Florida if:
- The leak is at the base of the faucet (not the spout)
- You have low water pressure throughout the house
- The shutoff valves under the sink won't close
- You see water stains on the cabinet floor
- The faucet is more than 15 years old
We serve Miami, Coral Gables, Hialeah, Miami Beach, Doral, Aventura, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Fort Lauderdale, and all surrounding areas. Same-day appointments are available 365 days a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your faucet is still dripping after replacing the washer, the valve seat may be damaged or worn. The valve seat is the connection point between the faucet and the spout. Over time, sediment can corrode it. This usually requires a professional plumber to resurface or replace the seat.
A faucet dripping once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water per year, according to the EPA. That can add $20–$35 to your annual water bill for a single dripping faucet. Multiple leaks compound the cost significantly.
Many simple faucet leaks — caused by worn washers or O-rings — can be fixed DIY with basic tools. However, if the shutoff valves won't close, if the leak is at the base, or if the valve seat is damaged, you should call a licensed plumber to avoid causing further damage.
A standard faucet repair typically takes 30–60 minutes for a licensed plumber. If parts need to be ordered or there is hidden damage, it may take longer. The Plumbers of Florida carry common parts on every van for same-day repairs.